| This work presents the design and fabrication of an implantable cortical microelectrode array. This type of transducer is used for communication between an electronic smart device and the human nervous system. Even though this array has been optimized for the visual stimulator developed by the neurotechnology research group Polystim, its design could easily be adapted to other types of implants.;The fabrication of the prototype begins with micromachining of the conductive structure of the electrodes by wire electrical discharge machining (wire-EDM) of 316LVM stainless steel, a material known for its excellent biocompatibility, low cost and good electrical properties. This step is followed by an electrochemical treatment called electropolishing, which can be used on 316LVM to reduce the electrode width to less than 50 mum, to smooth the surface and to enhance corrosion resistance. The wire-EDM and electropolishing processes showed good reproducibility for all the arrays of different dimensions and geometries. It is also important to note that the machining time is compatible with small-volume production, because several arrays can be made in a day using a fully automated procedure. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
